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Character Study Flash 2025
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forsworn. I requested fic in eight fandoms. Treats are welcome!
Whether I requested them solo or as part of a ship, all of these blorbos are ones I find fascinating, and I'd love a character study that delves into who they are, what they think, why they think that, and/or why they do what they do. I'm happy for you to reveal that through introspection, but also to display it via their interactions - whether fluffy, angsty, hurt/comfort, or even smut.
Navigation: DNWs | General Likes
Arcane: Mel Medarda | Ekko/Jinx | Jayce/Mel | Jayce/Mel/Viktor | Jayce/Viktor
DNDHAT: Simon Aumar | Xenk Yendar | Doric/Xenk | Edgin/Doric | Edgin/Xenk | Simon/Doric | Simon/Edgin | Simon/Xenk
Outlaw King: Robert/Elizabeth | Elizabeth&Marjorie
Pandora: Ralen
Princess Diaries: Mia/Nicholas
Rings of Power: Galadriel | The Stranger
Star Trek AOS: James T. Kirk
Wish: Magnifico
DNWs:
General Likes:
Mel Medarda
Mel contains multitudes and I'm fascinated by that. She's a polished politician, making deals and manipulating people. She's a caring leader, providing mentorship and protection. She's a burgeoning mage, discovering a power she never knew was inside her. She's a wounded daughter, aching under the weight of her mother's expectations - striving to meet them but also to escape them. She wants power, she wants to help. She's the child of two legacies: a Medarda, determined to be the best of them, struggling with the price of that role; a mage, shocked by this transformation, even as the role fits her so naturally.
I love the complexity and nuance of all of this, but I'd also love you to delve into just one aspect. I requested Mel/Jayce and Mel/Jayce/Viktor too, if you want to use those ships as a lens, but I'd also love to see her in the context of Mel/Caitlyn(/Vi) or Mel/Lest - though my thoughts there are just "there was a Vibe and I am Into It", lmao. There are also so many meaty possibilities in Mel&Ambessa. Just show me Mel's thoughts, motivations, hopes, fears, or personality, whether pre-canon, a missing scene, or post-canon.
Ekko/Jinx
Oh, Ekko. The boy saviour. He's tough, he's kind, he's protective, he needs protecting. He casts himself as a stern leader, but inside he carries the ache of deep trauma. Can he ever heal from that? What motivates a man to sacrifice his own happiness to save the world, or to gently offer redemption to his worst enemy? How much did the other world change him? Who can he become in the new Zaun?
Jinx is so mercurial. Psyche fractured by her own mistakes, she swings between extremes: gleeful chaos and destruction, desperation to be redeemed, rebuking the possibility of redemption, resenting her own downfall but unable to believe in hope. She's volatile, she's fragile, she's dangerous and she's yearning. So much angst! So much fun! 2x07 shows who Powder could have been - but with her innocence stained, could a redeemed Jinx ever find her way to a similar place?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. They're enemies, they're allies, they're old friends, they're lovers in another world. A missing scene or post-canon would be great. If it's during their enemy era, pre-relationship (with conflicted feelings and/or unresolved sexual tension) is fine. But I'd also love a character study in the context of them getting together, or as an established relationship.
Jayce Talis/Mel Medarda
Mel contains multitudes and I'm fascinated by that. She's a polished politician, making deals and manipulating people. She's a caring leader, providing mentorship and protection. She's a burgeoning mage, discovering a power she never knew was inside her. She's a wounded daughter, aching under the weight of her mother's expectations - striving to meet them but also to escape them. She wants power, she wants to help. She's the child of two legacies: a Medarda, determined to be the best of them, struggling with the price of that role; a mage, shocked by this transformation, even as the role fits her so naturally.
I feel like Jayce is a guy with a strong moral centre and a nonexistent moral framework. By which I mean, he wants to do good - but he has absolutely no concept of how to achieve that, or how certain actions might conflict with that goal. And maybe that's why he ends up creating dangerous superweapons, sliding into corruption, and committing a bit of child murder? I'm fine with those darker aspects being depicted, but I'd like your work to be sympathetic towards him. He can be thoughtless, slightly proud, and weak to flattery - but he's also affectionate, brilliant, and kindhearted. And very driven, which leads him down both good and bad paths.
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. The show skipped a lot of their bonding: give me a taste of their thoughts during those missing years. Or a missing scene as events in Piltover heat up, with them as a tender couple. In the end, it felt like they outgrew each other - but what if they didn't? Who would mage Mel and bearded Jayce be if they continued together?
Jayce Talis/Mel Medarda/Viktor
Mel contains multitudes and I'm fascinated by that. She's a polished politician, making deals and manipulating people. She's a caring leader, providing mentorship and protection. She's a burgeoning mage, discovering a power she never knew was inside her. She's a wounded daughter, aching under the weight of her mother's expectations - striving to meet them but also to escape them. She wants power, she wants to help. She's the child of two legacies: a Medarda, determined to be the best of them, struggling with the price of that role; a mage, shocked by this transformation, even as the role fits her so naturally.
I feel like Jayce is a guy with a strong moral centre and a nonexistent moral framework. By which I mean, he wants to do good - but he has absolutely no concept of how to achieve that, or how certain actions might conflict with that goal. And maybe that's why he ends up creating dangerous superweapons, sliding into corruption, and committing a bit of child murder? I'm fine with those darker aspects being depicted, but I'd like your work to be sympathetic towards him. He can be thoughtless, slightly proud, and weak to flattery - but he's also affectionate, brilliant, and kindhearted. And very driven, which leads him down both good and bad paths.
Viktor seems like someone who's struggled his whole life: with the limitations of his leg, with the lack of opportunities in Zaun, with being recognised for his work. He's wry and not given to pity, but he does have his moments of despair. But when faced with his own mortality, the determination that helped him excel also leads him towards a dangerous goal, pushing moral limits in the pursuit of a change (for himself, then the world) that isn't as good as he believes.
I'd love you to examine any of these three in the context of this ship. It'd probably involve canon divergence by necessity, but I'd love to see how they (and events) would develop if they were together when Hextech was being developed, or being deployed - or if Jayce and Viktor weren't sucked into wherever at the end. Maybe together the three of them would balance each other?
Jayce Talis/Viktor
I feel like Jayce is a guy with a strong moral centre and a nonexistent moral framework. By which I mean, he wants to do good - but he has absolutely no concept of how to achieve that, or how certain actions might conflict with that goal. And maybe that's why he ends up creating dangerous superweapons, sliding into corruption, and committing a bit of child murder? I'm fine with those darker aspects being depicted, but I'd like your work to be sympathetic towards him. He can be thoughtless, slightly proud, and weak to flattery - but he's also affectionate, brilliant, and kindhearted. And very driven, which leads him down both good and bad paths.
Viktor seems like someone who's struggled his whole life: with the limitations of his leg, with the lack of opportunities in Zaun, with being recognised for his work. He's wry and not given to pity, but he does have his moments of despair. But when faced with his own mortality, the determination that helped him excel also leads him towards a dangerous goal, pushing moral limits in the pursuit of a change (for himself, then the world) that isn't as good as he believes. How does he convince himself what he's doing is right? Did the Hexcore influence him, warp his mind? Did he decide the end justified the means - and the means then defined that end? When his Machine Herald form ripped to reveal that sliver of his old self, what realisation did that represent? Was he happy as the Machine Herald - or beyond emotion? And was he happy back in the old days with Jayce, creating Hextech?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. I love them as lab partners. I love that they're bound by destiny. For this flash theme, stuff during their "divorce era" would also be really interesting - how does their enmity shine a line on who they are, what they want, and what they'll each do to achieve it? But also, I'd love answers to those questions in the context of them being happily together, either while lab partners or whatever they're up to post-canon. (My only previous request for them was Fealty Flash, but you might still find the info useful.)
Simon Aumar
Oh, Simon. I love his combination of sweet, earnest awkwardness, and his sulkier, more sarcastic side. He struggles so much with being a sorcerer, with his ability to control those powers - and I'm fascinated by that in the context of him being descended from Elminster Aumar. That legacy is a heavy one to bear. I tend to imagine Simon is the only sorcerer in his family - and that most of them are wizards. I feel like it would explain a lot, growing up like that, inevitably misunderstood - wizardry is all about learned, honed power but sorcery is instinctive and innate. How could a family of wizards understand Simon? How could he have learned anything useful from their processes, from their assumptions? But maybe you have another idea about why he is the way he is, about the things that go on in his head! With his self-esteem issues, Simon seems like he'd be prone to introspection (and catastrophising) so there's a lot to be mined there. How did he become so convinced he's useless? He happily trusts Edgin with his life, but is so resistant to Edgin's encouragement of him.
I've also requested him as part of several ships () but I would love a platonic interaction with Edgin, Xenk, Holga or Kira, or the party generally; or Simon in a moment alone, maybe spiralling in his worries; or even with a family member, whether during his childhood or post-canon.
Xenk Yendar
Xenk is such an intriguing combination of concepts: a holy paladin, serious and stern, determined to do good and frowning upon criminality; but also cursed by dark magic, visibly changed by it, and judged by those he meets for it. Which side of that is more important to his identity? He's stern but kind, caring but awkward, strong but has experienced such trauma, deadly in battle but sworn to goodness. I love seeing him hold to his principles in the face of darkness - and navigating moral challenges in a messy world. He rejects the party's proposal, until they mention Red Wizards - his old foes tempting him to bend his rigid stance. How does he choose his actions, when two of his aims are in conflict? Some versions of the paladin oath would even give him a Vow of Honesty, which can cause some fun situations. (I'm not looking for dark Xenk here, but angsting as he searches for the least bad option? Definitely.) When people treat him harshly as a Thayan, does he strive to prove them wrong? When people place him on a pedestal as a paladin, does he struggle to live up to that? Fine with both autistic and non-autistic interpretations of him too!
I've also requested him as part of several ships () but I would love a platonic interaction with Doric, Simon, Holga or Kira, or the party generally; or Xenk in a moment alone, perhaps meditating; or on another adventure - with the Harpers, with someone in trouble, with a fellow paladin? Even back when Xenk was young, maybe when he was a squire to a paladin? I'm just fascinated by this guy, and I'd love a close up look at who he is, in whichever situation you think would illustrate that.
Doric/Xenk Yendar
Doric has such an angsty backstory: abandoned by human parents, raised by wood elves. Does she feel more like an elf, or more drawn to her human heritage? Or does she feel entirely tiefling, defined by the outsider status that's physically marked on her? How much prejudice does she experience out in the world, and how does she react to it? She can shapeshift, but that doesn't mean she can escape it. But as a druid, does she feel a powerful connection to nature - and does that connection rest easy in her, or does it ever feel ironic for a tiefling? She's blunt with others - but how honest is she with herself, inside her own head? Does her sharp-tongue ever conflict with her commitment to justice - when does she choose to be stern, when does she choose to be kind?
Xenk is such an intriguing combination of concepts: a holy paladin, serious and stern, determined to do good and frowning upon criminality; but also cursed by dark magic, visibly changed by it, and judged by those he meets for it. Which side of that is more important to his identity? He's stern but kind, caring but awkward, strong but has experienced such trauma, deadly in battle but sworn to goodness. I love seeing him hold to his principles in the face of darkness - and navigating moral challenges in a messy world. He rejects the party's proposal, until they mention Red Wizards - his old foes tempting him to bend his rigid stance. How does he choose his actions, when two of his aims are in conflict? Some versions of the paladin oath would even give him a Vow of Honesty, which can cause some fun situations. (I'm not looking for dark Xenk here, but angsting as he searches for the least bad option? Definitely.) When people treat him harshly as a Thayan, does he strive to prove them wrong? When people place him on a pedestal as a paladin, does he struggle to live up to that? Fine with both autistic and non-autistic interpretations of him too!
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Edgin Darvis/Doric
Doric has such an angsty backstory: abandoned by human parents, raised by wood elves. Does she feel more like an elf, or more drawn to her human heritage? Or does she feel entirely tiefling, defined by the outsider status that's physically marked on her? How much prejudice does she experience out in the world, and how does she react to it? She can shapeshift, but that doesn't mean she can escape it. But as a druid, does she feel a powerful connection to nature - and does that connection rest easy in her, or does it ever feel ironic for a tiefling? She's blunt with others - but how honest is she with herself, inside her own head? Does her sharp-tongue ever conflict with her commitment to justice - when does she choose to be stern, when does she choose to be kind?
Edgin's got a good heart, even if he doesn't believe that any more. He's a chaotic good who's convinced himself he's chaotic neutral. He's a charming bard and a career criminal - but the instincts that led him to become a Harper are still in there, even if they're buried under trauma and shame and a false grin. One small selfish, impulsive act changed his life completely. He clearly loves Zia so much, and he's devastated by her loss - and that devastation leads him to take actions that hurt Kira, even though he loves her deeply too. I think maybe he's so hostile to Xenk because he has to blame the Red Wizards, because he's too ashamed to admit his part in Zia's death; and he needs Xenk to be a horrible Thayan, because if Xenk is actually a good paladin - if someone can choose holiness despite being cursed, if that kind of purity can exist - then Edgin should have been able to resist the temptation of that gold. But if real goodness doesn't exist, then it can't be his fault that he's flawed. Like he's stuck in some kind of mental loop. But the only real way to erase that guilt is to bring Zia back... and chasing that goal leads him to all kinds of other mistakes. At the same time, when it comes down to it, he'll always choose the side of goodness. But does Edgin know who he is? Is he caught up in his own narrative? He hides his pain with a smile, but is it fake, or has he suckered himself with his own act?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Edgin Darvis/Xenk Yendar
Xenk is such an intriguing combination of concepts: a holy paladin, serious and stern, determined to do good and frowning upon criminality; but also cursed by dark magic, visibly changed by it, and judged by those he meets for it. Which side of that is more important to his identity? He's stern but kind, caring but awkward, strong but has experienced such trauma, deadly in battle but sworn to goodness. I love seeing him hold to his principles in the face of darkness - and navigating moral challenges in a messy world. He rejects the party's proposal, until they mention Red Wizards - his old foes tempting him to bend his rigid stance. How does he choose his actions, when two of his aims are in conflict? Some versions of the paladin oath would even give him a Vow of Honesty, which can cause some fun situations. (I'm not looking for dark Xenk here, but angsting as he searches for the least bad option? Definitely.) When people treat him harshly as a Thayan, does he strive to prove them wrong? When people place him on a pedestal as a paladin, does he struggle to live up to that? Fine with both autistic and non-autistic interpretations of him too!
Edgin's got a good heart, even if he doesn't believe that any more. He's a chaotic good who's convinced himself he's chaotic neutral. He's a charming bard and a career criminal - but the instincts that led him to become a Harper are still in there, even if they're buried under trauma and shame and a false grin. One small selfish, impulsive act changed his life completely. He clearly loves Zia so much, and he's devastated by her loss - and that devastation leads him to take actions that hurt Kira, even though he loves her deeply too. I think maybe he's so hostile to Xenk because he has to blame the Red Wizards, because he's too ashamed to admit his part in Zia's death; and he needs Xenk to be a horrible Thayan, because if Xenk is actually a good paladin - if someone can choose holiness despite being cursed, if that kind of purity can exist - then Edgin should have been able to resist the temptation of that gold. But if real goodness doesn't exist, then it can't be his fault that he's flawed. Like he's stuck in some kind of mental loop. But the only real way to erase that guilt is to bring Zia back... and chasing that goal leads him to all kinds of other mistakes. At the same time, when it comes down to it, he'll always choose the side of goodness. But does Edgin know who he is? Is he caught up in his own narrative? He hides his pain with a smile, but is it fake, or has he suckered himself with his own act?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Simon Aumar/Doric
Oh, Simon. I love his combination of sweet, earnest awkwardness, and his sulkier, more sarcastic side. He struggles so much with being a sorcerer, with his ability to control those powers - and I'm fascinated by that in the context of him being descended from Elminster Aumar. That legacy is a heavy one to bear. I tend to imagine Simon is the only sorcerer in his family - and that most of them are wizards. I feel like it would explain a lot, growing up like that, inevitably misunderstood - wizardry is all about learned, honed power but sorcery is instinctive and innate. How could a family of wizards understand Simon? How could he have learned anything useful from their processes, from their assumptions? But maybe you have another idea about why he is the way he is, about the things that go on in his head! With his self-esteem issues, Simon seems like he'd be prone to introspection (and catastrophising) so there's a lot to be mined there. How did he become so convinced he's useless? He happily trusts Edgin with his life, but is so resistant to Edgin's encouragement of him.
Doric has such an angsty backstory: abandoned by human parents, raised by wood elves. Does she feel more like an elf, or more drawn to her human heritage? Or does she feel entirely tiefling, defined by the outsider status that's physically marked on her? How much prejudice does she experience out in the world, and how does she react to it? She can shapeshift, but that doesn't mean she can escape it. But as a druid, does she feel a powerful connection to nature - and does that connection rest easy in her, or does it ever feel ironic for a tiefling? She's blunt with others - but how honest is she with herself, inside her own head? Does her sharp-tongue ever conflict with her commitment to justice - when does she choose to be stern, when does she choose to be kind?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Simon Aumar/Edgin Darvis
Oh, Simon. I love his combination of sweet, earnest awkwardness, and his sulkier, more sarcastic side. He struggles so much with being a sorcerer, with his ability to control those powers - and I'm fascinated by that in the context of him being descended from Elminster Aumar. That legacy is a heavy one to bear. I tend to imagine Simon is the only sorcerer in his family - and that most of them are wizards. I feel like it would explain a lot, growing up like that, inevitably misunderstood - wizardry is all about learned, honed power but sorcery is instinctive and innate. How could a family of wizards understand Simon? How could he have learned anything useful from their processes, from their assumptions? But maybe you have another idea about why he is the way he is, about the things that go on in his head! With his self-esteem issues, Simon seems like he'd be prone to introspection (and catastrophising) so there's a lot to be mined there. How did he become so convinced he's useless? He happily trusts Edgin with his life, but is so resistant to Edgin's encouragement of him.
Edgin's got a good heart, even if he doesn't believe that any more. He's a chaotic good who's convinced himself he's chaotic neutral. He's a charming bard and a career criminal - but the instincts that led him to become a Harper are still in there, even if they're buried under trauma and shame and a false grin. One small selfish, impulsive act changed his life completely. He clearly loves Zia so much, and he's devastated by her loss - and that devastation leads him to take actions that hurt Kira, even though he loves her deeply too. I think maybe he's so hostile to Xenk because he has to blame the Red Wizards, because he's too ashamed to admit his part in Zia's death; and he needs Xenk to be a horrible Thayan, because if Xenk is actually a good paladin - if someone can choose holiness despite being cursed, if that kind of purity can exist - then Edgin should have been able to resist the temptation of that gold. But if real goodness doesn't exist, then it can't be his fault that he's flawed. Like he's stuck in some kind of mental loop. But the only real way to erase that guilt is to bring Zia back... and chasing that goal leads him to all kinds of other mistakes. At the same time, when it comes down to it, he'll always choose the side of goodness. But does Edgin know who he is? Is he caught up in his own narrative? He hides his pain with a smile, but is it fake, or has he suckered himself with his own act?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. Could be set pre-Korinn's Keep, or post-canon. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Simon Aumar/Xenk Yendar
Oh, Simon. I love his combination of sweet, earnest awkwardness, and his sulkier, more sarcastic side. He struggles so much with being a sorcerer, with his ability to control those powers - and I'm fascinated by that in the context of him being descended from Elminster Aumar. That legacy is a heavy one to bear. I tend to imagine Simon is the only sorcerer in his family - and that most of them are wizards. I feel like it would explain a lot, growing up like that, inevitably misunderstood - wizardry is all about learned, honed power but sorcery is instinctive and innate. How could a family of wizards understand Simon? How could he have learned anything useful from their processes, from their assumptions? But maybe you have another idea about why he is the way he is, about the things that go on in his head! With his self-esteem issues, Simon seems like he'd be prone to introspection (and catastrophising) so there's a lot to be mined there. How did he become so convinced he's useless?
Xenk is such an intriguing combination of concepts: a holy paladin, serious and stern, determined to do good and frowning upon criminality; but also cursed by dark magic, visibly changed by it, and judged by those he meets for it. Which side of that is more important to his identity? He's stern but kind, caring but awkward, strong but has experienced such trauma, deadly in battle but sworn to goodness. I love seeing him hold to his principles in the face of darkness - and navigating moral challenges in a messy world. He rejects the party's proposal, until they mention Red Wizards - his old foes tempting him to bend his rigid stance. How does he choose his actions, when two of his aims are in conflict? Some versions of the paladin oath would even give him a Vow of Honesty, which can cause some fun situations. (I'm not looking for dark Xenk here, but angsting as he searches for the least bad option? Definitely.) When people treat him harshly as a Thayan, does he strive to prove them wrong? When people place him on a pedestal as a paladin, does he struggle to live up to that? Fine with both autistic and non-autistic interpretations of him too!
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Robert Bruce/Elizabeth de Burgh
Robert is so enigmatic. He can be gentle and patient, he can deal out extreme violence. He's a polished statesman capable of inspiring speeches, but turns into an awkward dork around Elizabeth. He's patient but also restrained. He's intensely loyal, but willing to break oaths. He wants to protect his people, but is he also self-serving in seeking to lead them? What was his internal process of falling in love with Elizabeth?
Elizabeth is a political pawn, gifted to a stranger in the name of peace (and control). But her speech about being well-read shows she must have a deep inner life, full of consideration. She's buffeted by the demands of history, but is determined to make and stick with her own choices. What motivates her to support Robert's cause? To believe so strongly in him as a leader, as a husband? What hopes does she have for herself and her own future? She started off fearing intimacy with Robert, then grew to respect him, then fell in love - what did any part of that look like from inside?
A missing scene or something post-canon would be great, whether in the context of politics or their feelings. I love the nuance and complexity of these characters and their relationship, but I'd be happy with something that examines a single aspect of that. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Marjorie Bruce & Elizabeth de Burgh
This is a relationship which largely grows off-screen, displayed through tiny moments: a soft first meeting, playing chase in the castle, singing a lullaby. But what happened in between? How did those changes take place inside them? What were their thoughts about each other, what did they bring to the table, what forged their opinions of each other? Their relationship while on the run is so interesting too. What were their fears, their hopes, during that time? Was Elizabeth gently reassuring Marjorie, keeping her amused, even as her own private thoughts turned to despair? Or was she deeply concerned, but clinging hard to her belief in Robert?
This probably lends itself more towards Elizabeth's POV, but if you feel like you can get inside Marjorie's head, go for it. I just love that Elizabeth is the sort of person who'd be a kind stepmother, and I'd love a closer examination of the how and why of her being that person. And that Marjorie is so open to accepting her! (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Ralen
I love this awkward, intense alien dude. The fact that he's the son of a warmonger diplomat, choosing to live among people who hate him in the hope of promoting peace? Delicious. Then you add in his dorkiness and the fun space adventures and I'm sold. His inner life, his thoughts, his assumptions, his hopes and his personality could lead to some worldbuilding about Zatar too, because their culture must have influenced him so much. But I'm also open to something focusing on his experience with the gang at the academy, or in the context of ships such as
Ralen/Jax, Ralen/Jax/Delaney, Ralen/Xander, Ralen/Xander/Jax, Ralen/Xander/Jett, or Ralen/Matta. (Links go to previous requests for those ships, in case you want more detailed prompts/thoughts.) Happy for this to be pre-canon, a missing scene, post-canon, or even canon divergence!
Nicholas Devereaux/Mia Thermopolis
Through Mia's diaries, we already get a direct insight into her inner life - I'd love to see that continue post-canon, as her relationship with Nicholas develops, or is fully established. I love the concept of a character presenting a public mask, and privately sharing a more earnest self with those close to them - and the addition of Mia's diary adds another layer underneath, revealing her truest self. But you don't have to use the diary at all - I would love to see her personality come through even when she's put down her pen. She cares so much, she's fought so hard to become queen, and gone through such a process to get together with Nicholas.
Nicholas doesn't have the same outlet for his private thoughts, but there must be so much going on in there. He went from a dismissive rival, influenced by his manipulative uncle, to an earnest supporter making his own choices. He was pushed towards power, but reached for love instead. Mia seems to be his first serious relationship; he's deeply sincere about his feelings, but is he ever afraid of being so vulnerable? Does the ghost of his uncle's manipulations still linger inside him? Does he worry that he's not a good man - that he won't be a good father? Is he worried about the demands of his role as consort?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship, whether a missing scene or post-canon. Also happy for you to bounce them off Clarisse, Joe, Lilly or Mabrey. Or even Fat Louie! (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Galadriel
I'm fascinated by this version of Galadriel. She's strong but conflicted, determined to the point of being unhealthy, focused on making a better world but walking a knife-edge of temptation. I love her as a badass warrior woman, but I also love seeing her vulnerabilities. I'd eat up anything about her inner life, her personality, her motivations. Her friendship with Elrond and her uneasy relationship with Gilgalad are great, and would be a fun context, but I'd also love to see Galadriel examined via any of these ships: Galadriel/Halbrand or Galadriel/Sauron, Galadriel/Elrond, Galadriel/Miriel, Galadriel/Elendil, Galadriel/Arondir, Galadriel/Adar/Sauron. Would these partners help her find stability - or encourage her darkest impulses?
The Stranger
This younger, more vulnerable version of Gandalf is so interesting to me. Obviously we know who he'll become later - but who is he right now? Who is he when he doesn't remember who he is, when he hasn't created who he is yet? I love seeing him through the lens of his platonic relationship with Nori. He looks old but he's effectively a newborn; she's young and still growing into herself too, but ends up directing and protecting him. And he protects her too - or tries to, and instead causes some magical danger, struggling to control his powers. I'd love to see him learning, growing, or examining himself, whether that's solo or through interacting with Nori. (Poppy's welcome to come along for the ride too!)
James T. Kirk
I love this version of Kirk. He's brilliant but reckless, charming but arrogant, protective of his crew but callous to his lovers, willing to break the rules based on his own whims but also willing to sacrifice his life for others. The process that he goes through - from traumatised young man wasting his potential, to sparky cadet, to overconfident captain, to a balanced and mellow leader - is great to watch, and I'd love you to examine him at any point on that journey, or even post-canon. What is his thought process like - strategising, evaluating, gambling? How does he deal with all that trauma lurking under the surface? Who is he in this moment, and is this moment a stepping stone to being a different man?
I'd love to see him captaining his crew, but also in the context of any of these ships: Kirk/Bones, Kirk/Bones/Spock, Kirk/Chekov, Kirk/Pike, Kirk/Scotty, Kirk/Spock. (Links go to previous requests for those ships, in case you want more detailed prompts/thoughts.) Also platonic interactions with Chekov or Jaylah, or Pike's mentorship, would be a fun lens to examine him through.
(Note: Tarsus IV is a big part of his trauma in the original series, but I don't think it's automatically canon here - Kirk was on Tarsus because his father was stationed there, which couldn't happen in this timeline. But! Tarsus angst is great, so I'm happy for you to include it, I'd just like a mention of why he was there. But even if Tarsus isn't canon, being born into survivor's guilt and then living with an abusive stepfather - not to mention all the horrors in space - are trauma enough to have given him that angst. That delicious angst...)
Magnifico
I feel like Magnifico is two characters in a trenchcoat. Is he a purely evil villain powered by arrogance and a need for control, or a sympathetic antagonist crushed by the pressure of kingship and past trauma? I would love you to grab either idea with both hands and really delve into it. Why does he do the things he does? Does he really believe that he's helping people? Could he ever have changed course? And can he ever be redeemed?
Pre-canon, a missing scene, and post-canon are all welcome. Canon divergence too - I'm always up for a villain wins AU, or an AU where Asha became Magnifico's apprentice after all. Platonic interactions with Asha or other citizens of Rosas would be great, or show me his personality in the context of Magnifico/Amaya, Magnifico/Asha, or Magnifico/Amaya/Asha. (Links go to previous requests for those ships, in case you want more detailed prompts/thoughts.)
Whether I requested them solo or as part of a ship, all of these blorbos are ones I find fascinating, and I'd love a character study that delves into who they are, what they think, why they think that, and/or why they do what they do. I'm happy for you to reveal that through introspection, but also to display it via their interactions - whether fluffy, angsty, hurt/comfort, or even smut.
Navigation: DNWs | General Likes
Arcane: Mel Medarda | Ekko/Jinx | Jayce/Mel | Jayce/Mel/Viktor | Jayce/Viktor
DNDHAT: Simon Aumar | Xenk Yendar | Doric/Xenk | Edgin/Doric | Edgin/Xenk | Simon/Doric | Simon/Edgin | Simon/Xenk
Outlaw King: Robert/Elizabeth | Elizabeth&Marjorie
Pandora: Ralen
Princess Diaries: Mia/Nicholas
Rings of Power: Galadriel | The Stranger
Star Trek AOS: James T. Kirk
Wish: Magnifico
DNWs:
- 1st or 2nd person POV
- Cheating
- Breakups
- Noncon
- Major character death
- Gore
- Vore
- Bestiality, sex while in animal form
- Scat, watersports, vomit in a sexual context (non-sexual vomiting is fine)
- Underage sex (18+ only)
- Canon characters explicitly depicted as aromantic or asexual
- Unrequested / ships
- For Princess Diaries: Mia and Nicholas kissing while she's engaged to Andrew is fine, as is Mia/Andrew breaking up.
- For Wish: implied sex while underage (18+ only)
General Likes:
- Fluff. Domestic fluff. Hopeful spring vibes. Cosy autumn or winter vibes. Rainy evenings in. Lazy sunny mornings. Cooking together, eating together. Playing board games. The daily routines of travelling together longterm.
- Banter. Getting together. Established relationship. Found family. Characters showing affection in their own way. Groups amusing themselves with jokes and stories while spending every day together. Characters trusting in each other's skills. Competence kink.
- Cheek touches. Hand on the back of the neck. Hugs and cuddling. Cheek kisses. Forehead kisses. (Platonic versions welcome!)
- Holding hands. Kisses described in loving detail. Brushing fingers over lips.
- Angst with a happy ending. Hurt/comfort. Mutual pining. Repression and self-denial. Intense sense of duty or loyalty. Complicated family legacies. Self-esteem issues.
- Dreams and nightmares. Shared dreams. Prophetic dreams, dreams of future soulmate. Nightmares of past trauma.
- Truth spells. Telepathic bonds. Soulbonds, accidental or deliberate. Magical tattoos that show connections: soulmate marks, pistilverse, etc.
- Kidfic, of the canon character being de-aged type. Kidfic, of the having and caring for children type. Pregnancy, including mpreg. Pregnancy fluff: anticipating child, preparing, taking care of pregnant partner. Pregnancy angst: worrying about being a good parent, worrying about the birth (esp for mpreg). Pregnancy hurt/comfort: morning sickness, pampering partner.
- Forced proximity: stuck in a prison cell together, only one bed, trapped by a cave-in, hiding in a closet, handcuffed together, magic spell, etc.
- Sparring and combat tutoring. Character A defending character B with character B's weapon.
Mel Medarda
Mel contains multitudes and I'm fascinated by that. She's a polished politician, making deals and manipulating people. She's a caring leader, providing mentorship and protection. She's a burgeoning mage, discovering a power she never knew was inside her. She's a wounded daughter, aching under the weight of her mother's expectations - striving to meet them but also to escape them. She wants power, she wants to help. She's the child of two legacies: a Medarda, determined to be the best of them, struggling with the price of that role; a mage, shocked by this transformation, even as the role fits her so naturally.
I love the complexity and nuance of all of this, but I'd also love you to delve into just one aspect. I requested Mel/Jayce and Mel/Jayce/Viktor too, if you want to use those ships as a lens, but I'd also love to see her in the context of Mel/Caitlyn(/Vi) or Mel/Lest - though my thoughts there are just "there was a Vibe and I am Into It", lmao. There are also so many meaty possibilities in Mel&Ambessa. Just show me Mel's thoughts, motivations, hopes, fears, or personality, whether pre-canon, a missing scene, or post-canon.
Ekko/Jinx
Oh, Ekko. The boy saviour. He's tough, he's kind, he's protective, he needs protecting. He casts himself as a stern leader, but inside he carries the ache of deep trauma. Can he ever heal from that? What motivates a man to sacrifice his own happiness to save the world, or to gently offer redemption to his worst enemy? How much did the other world change him? Who can he become in the new Zaun?
Jinx is so mercurial. Psyche fractured by her own mistakes, she swings between extremes: gleeful chaos and destruction, desperation to be redeemed, rebuking the possibility of redemption, resenting her own downfall but unable to believe in hope. She's volatile, she's fragile, she's dangerous and she's yearning. So much angst! So much fun! 2x07 shows who Powder could have been - but with her innocence stained, could a redeemed Jinx ever find her way to a similar place?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. They're enemies, they're allies, they're old friends, they're lovers in another world. A missing scene or post-canon would be great. If it's during their enemy era, pre-relationship (with conflicted feelings and/or unresolved sexual tension) is fine. But I'd also love a character study in the context of them getting together, or as an established relationship.
Jayce Talis/Mel Medarda
Mel contains multitudes and I'm fascinated by that. She's a polished politician, making deals and manipulating people. She's a caring leader, providing mentorship and protection. She's a burgeoning mage, discovering a power she never knew was inside her. She's a wounded daughter, aching under the weight of her mother's expectations - striving to meet them but also to escape them. She wants power, she wants to help. She's the child of two legacies: a Medarda, determined to be the best of them, struggling with the price of that role; a mage, shocked by this transformation, even as the role fits her so naturally.
I feel like Jayce is a guy with a strong moral centre and a nonexistent moral framework. By which I mean, he wants to do good - but he has absolutely no concept of how to achieve that, or how certain actions might conflict with that goal. And maybe that's why he ends up creating dangerous superweapons, sliding into corruption, and committing a bit of child murder? I'm fine with those darker aspects being depicted, but I'd like your work to be sympathetic towards him. He can be thoughtless, slightly proud, and weak to flattery - but he's also affectionate, brilliant, and kindhearted. And very driven, which leads him down both good and bad paths.
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. The show skipped a lot of their bonding: give me a taste of their thoughts during those missing years. Or a missing scene as events in Piltover heat up, with them as a tender couple. In the end, it felt like they outgrew each other - but what if they didn't? Who would mage Mel and bearded Jayce be if they continued together?
Jayce Talis/Mel Medarda/Viktor
Mel contains multitudes and I'm fascinated by that. She's a polished politician, making deals and manipulating people. She's a caring leader, providing mentorship and protection. She's a burgeoning mage, discovering a power she never knew was inside her. She's a wounded daughter, aching under the weight of her mother's expectations - striving to meet them but also to escape them. She wants power, she wants to help. She's the child of two legacies: a Medarda, determined to be the best of them, struggling with the price of that role; a mage, shocked by this transformation, even as the role fits her so naturally.
I feel like Jayce is a guy with a strong moral centre and a nonexistent moral framework. By which I mean, he wants to do good - but he has absolutely no concept of how to achieve that, or how certain actions might conflict with that goal. And maybe that's why he ends up creating dangerous superweapons, sliding into corruption, and committing a bit of child murder? I'm fine with those darker aspects being depicted, but I'd like your work to be sympathetic towards him. He can be thoughtless, slightly proud, and weak to flattery - but he's also affectionate, brilliant, and kindhearted. And very driven, which leads him down both good and bad paths.
Viktor seems like someone who's struggled his whole life: with the limitations of his leg, with the lack of opportunities in Zaun, with being recognised for his work. He's wry and not given to pity, but he does have his moments of despair. But when faced with his own mortality, the determination that helped him excel also leads him towards a dangerous goal, pushing moral limits in the pursuit of a change (for himself, then the world) that isn't as good as he believes.
I'd love you to examine any of these three in the context of this ship. It'd probably involve canon divergence by necessity, but I'd love to see how they (and events) would develop if they were together when Hextech was being developed, or being deployed - or if Jayce and Viktor weren't sucked into wherever at the end. Maybe together the three of them would balance each other?
Jayce Talis/Viktor
I feel like Jayce is a guy with a strong moral centre and a nonexistent moral framework. By which I mean, he wants to do good - but he has absolutely no concept of how to achieve that, or how certain actions might conflict with that goal. And maybe that's why he ends up creating dangerous superweapons, sliding into corruption, and committing a bit of child murder? I'm fine with those darker aspects being depicted, but I'd like your work to be sympathetic towards him. He can be thoughtless, slightly proud, and weak to flattery - but he's also affectionate, brilliant, and kindhearted. And very driven, which leads him down both good and bad paths.
Viktor seems like someone who's struggled his whole life: with the limitations of his leg, with the lack of opportunities in Zaun, with being recognised for his work. He's wry and not given to pity, but he does have his moments of despair. But when faced with his own mortality, the determination that helped him excel also leads him towards a dangerous goal, pushing moral limits in the pursuit of a change (for himself, then the world) that isn't as good as he believes. How does he convince himself what he's doing is right? Did the Hexcore influence him, warp his mind? Did he decide the end justified the means - and the means then defined that end? When his Machine Herald form ripped to reveal that sliver of his old self, what realisation did that represent? Was he happy as the Machine Herald - or beyond emotion? And was he happy back in the old days with Jayce, creating Hextech?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. I love them as lab partners. I love that they're bound by destiny. For this flash theme, stuff during their "divorce era" would also be really interesting - how does their enmity shine a line on who they are, what they want, and what they'll each do to achieve it? But also, I'd love answers to those questions in the context of them being happily together, either while lab partners or whatever they're up to post-canon. (My only previous request for them was Fealty Flash, but you might still find the info useful.)
Simon Aumar
Oh, Simon. I love his combination of sweet, earnest awkwardness, and his sulkier, more sarcastic side. He struggles so much with being a sorcerer, with his ability to control those powers - and I'm fascinated by that in the context of him being descended from Elminster Aumar. That legacy is a heavy one to bear. I tend to imagine Simon is the only sorcerer in his family - and that most of them are wizards. I feel like it would explain a lot, growing up like that, inevitably misunderstood - wizardry is all about learned, honed power but sorcery is instinctive and innate. How could a family of wizards understand Simon? How could he have learned anything useful from their processes, from their assumptions? But maybe you have another idea about why he is the way he is, about the things that go on in his head! With his self-esteem issues, Simon seems like he'd be prone to introspection (and catastrophising) so there's a lot to be mined there. How did he become so convinced he's useless? He happily trusts Edgin with his life, but is so resistant to Edgin's encouragement of him.
I've also requested him as part of several ships () but I would love a platonic interaction with Edgin, Xenk, Holga or Kira, or the party generally; or Simon in a moment alone, maybe spiralling in his worries; or even with a family member, whether during his childhood or post-canon.
Xenk Yendar
Xenk is such an intriguing combination of concepts: a holy paladin, serious and stern, determined to do good and frowning upon criminality; but also cursed by dark magic, visibly changed by it, and judged by those he meets for it. Which side of that is more important to his identity? He's stern but kind, caring but awkward, strong but has experienced such trauma, deadly in battle but sworn to goodness. I love seeing him hold to his principles in the face of darkness - and navigating moral challenges in a messy world. He rejects the party's proposal, until they mention Red Wizards - his old foes tempting him to bend his rigid stance. How does he choose his actions, when two of his aims are in conflict? Some versions of the paladin oath would even give him a Vow of Honesty, which can cause some fun situations. (I'm not looking for dark Xenk here, but angsting as he searches for the least bad option? Definitely.) When people treat him harshly as a Thayan, does he strive to prove them wrong? When people place him on a pedestal as a paladin, does he struggle to live up to that? Fine with both autistic and non-autistic interpretations of him too!
I've also requested him as part of several ships () but I would love a platonic interaction with Doric, Simon, Holga or Kira, or the party generally; or Xenk in a moment alone, perhaps meditating; or on another adventure - with the Harpers, with someone in trouble, with a fellow paladin? Even back when Xenk was young, maybe when he was a squire to a paladin? I'm just fascinated by this guy, and I'd love a close up look at who he is, in whichever situation you think would illustrate that.
Doric/Xenk Yendar
Doric has such an angsty backstory: abandoned by human parents, raised by wood elves. Does she feel more like an elf, or more drawn to her human heritage? Or does she feel entirely tiefling, defined by the outsider status that's physically marked on her? How much prejudice does she experience out in the world, and how does she react to it? She can shapeshift, but that doesn't mean she can escape it. But as a druid, does she feel a powerful connection to nature - and does that connection rest easy in her, or does it ever feel ironic for a tiefling? She's blunt with others - but how honest is she with herself, inside her own head? Does her sharp-tongue ever conflict with her commitment to justice - when does she choose to be stern, when does she choose to be kind?
Xenk is such an intriguing combination of concepts: a holy paladin, serious and stern, determined to do good and frowning upon criminality; but also cursed by dark magic, visibly changed by it, and judged by those he meets for it. Which side of that is more important to his identity? He's stern but kind, caring but awkward, strong but has experienced such trauma, deadly in battle but sworn to goodness. I love seeing him hold to his principles in the face of darkness - and navigating moral challenges in a messy world. He rejects the party's proposal, until they mention Red Wizards - his old foes tempting him to bend his rigid stance. How does he choose his actions, when two of his aims are in conflict? Some versions of the paladin oath would even give him a Vow of Honesty, which can cause some fun situations. (I'm not looking for dark Xenk here, but angsting as he searches for the least bad option? Definitely.) When people treat him harshly as a Thayan, does he strive to prove them wrong? When people place him on a pedestal as a paladin, does he struggle to live up to that? Fine with both autistic and non-autistic interpretations of him too!
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Edgin Darvis/Doric
Doric has such an angsty backstory: abandoned by human parents, raised by wood elves. Does she feel more like an elf, or more drawn to her human heritage? Or does she feel entirely tiefling, defined by the outsider status that's physically marked on her? How much prejudice does she experience out in the world, and how does she react to it? She can shapeshift, but that doesn't mean she can escape it. But as a druid, does she feel a powerful connection to nature - and does that connection rest easy in her, or does it ever feel ironic for a tiefling? She's blunt with others - but how honest is she with herself, inside her own head? Does her sharp-tongue ever conflict with her commitment to justice - when does she choose to be stern, when does she choose to be kind?
Edgin's got a good heart, even if he doesn't believe that any more. He's a chaotic good who's convinced himself he's chaotic neutral. He's a charming bard and a career criminal - but the instincts that led him to become a Harper are still in there, even if they're buried under trauma and shame and a false grin. One small selfish, impulsive act changed his life completely. He clearly loves Zia so much, and he's devastated by her loss - and that devastation leads him to take actions that hurt Kira, even though he loves her deeply too. I think maybe he's so hostile to Xenk because he has to blame the Red Wizards, because he's too ashamed to admit his part in Zia's death; and he needs Xenk to be a horrible Thayan, because if Xenk is actually a good paladin - if someone can choose holiness despite being cursed, if that kind of purity can exist - then Edgin should have been able to resist the temptation of that gold. But if real goodness doesn't exist, then it can't be his fault that he's flawed. Like he's stuck in some kind of mental loop. But the only real way to erase that guilt is to bring Zia back... and chasing that goal leads him to all kinds of other mistakes. At the same time, when it comes down to it, he'll always choose the side of goodness. But does Edgin know who he is? Is he caught up in his own narrative? He hides his pain with a smile, but is it fake, or has he suckered himself with his own act?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Edgin Darvis/Xenk Yendar
Xenk is such an intriguing combination of concepts: a holy paladin, serious and stern, determined to do good and frowning upon criminality; but also cursed by dark magic, visibly changed by it, and judged by those he meets for it. Which side of that is more important to his identity? He's stern but kind, caring but awkward, strong but has experienced such trauma, deadly in battle but sworn to goodness. I love seeing him hold to his principles in the face of darkness - and navigating moral challenges in a messy world. He rejects the party's proposal, until they mention Red Wizards - his old foes tempting him to bend his rigid stance. How does he choose his actions, when two of his aims are in conflict? Some versions of the paladin oath would even give him a Vow of Honesty, which can cause some fun situations. (I'm not looking for dark Xenk here, but angsting as he searches for the least bad option? Definitely.) When people treat him harshly as a Thayan, does he strive to prove them wrong? When people place him on a pedestal as a paladin, does he struggle to live up to that? Fine with both autistic and non-autistic interpretations of him too!
Edgin's got a good heart, even if he doesn't believe that any more. He's a chaotic good who's convinced himself he's chaotic neutral. He's a charming bard and a career criminal - but the instincts that led him to become a Harper are still in there, even if they're buried under trauma and shame and a false grin. One small selfish, impulsive act changed his life completely. He clearly loves Zia so much, and he's devastated by her loss - and that devastation leads him to take actions that hurt Kira, even though he loves her deeply too. I think maybe he's so hostile to Xenk because he has to blame the Red Wizards, because he's too ashamed to admit his part in Zia's death; and he needs Xenk to be a horrible Thayan, because if Xenk is actually a good paladin - if someone can choose holiness despite being cursed, if that kind of purity can exist - then Edgin should have been able to resist the temptation of that gold. But if real goodness doesn't exist, then it can't be his fault that he's flawed. Like he's stuck in some kind of mental loop. But the only real way to erase that guilt is to bring Zia back... and chasing that goal leads him to all kinds of other mistakes. At the same time, when it comes down to it, he'll always choose the side of goodness. But does Edgin know who he is? Is he caught up in his own narrative? He hides his pain with a smile, but is it fake, or has he suckered himself with his own act?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Simon Aumar/Doric
Oh, Simon. I love his combination of sweet, earnest awkwardness, and his sulkier, more sarcastic side. He struggles so much with being a sorcerer, with his ability to control those powers - and I'm fascinated by that in the context of him being descended from Elminster Aumar. That legacy is a heavy one to bear. I tend to imagine Simon is the only sorcerer in his family - and that most of them are wizards. I feel like it would explain a lot, growing up like that, inevitably misunderstood - wizardry is all about learned, honed power but sorcery is instinctive and innate. How could a family of wizards understand Simon? How could he have learned anything useful from their processes, from their assumptions? But maybe you have another idea about why he is the way he is, about the things that go on in his head! With his self-esteem issues, Simon seems like he'd be prone to introspection (and catastrophising) so there's a lot to be mined there. How did he become so convinced he's useless? He happily trusts Edgin with his life, but is so resistant to Edgin's encouragement of him.
Doric has such an angsty backstory: abandoned by human parents, raised by wood elves. Does she feel more like an elf, or more drawn to her human heritage? Or does she feel entirely tiefling, defined by the outsider status that's physically marked on her? How much prejudice does she experience out in the world, and how does she react to it? She can shapeshift, but that doesn't mean she can escape it. But as a druid, does she feel a powerful connection to nature - and does that connection rest easy in her, or does it ever feel ironic for a tiefling? She's blunt with others - but how honest is she with herself, inside her own head? Does her sharp-tongue ever conflict with her commitment to justice - when does she choose to be stern, when does she choose to be kind?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Simon Aumar/Edgin Darvis
Oh, Simon. I love his combination of sweet, earnest awkwardness, and his sulkier, more sarcastic side. He struggles so much with being a sorcerer, with his ability to control those powers - and I'm fascinated by that in the context of him being descended from Elminster Aumar. That legacy is a heavy one to bear. I tend to imagine Simon is the only sorcerer in his family - and that most of them are wizards. I feel like it would explain a lot, growing up like that, inevitably misunderstood - wizardry is all about learned, honed power but sorcery is instinctive and innate. How could a family of wizards understand Simon? How could he have learned anything useful from their processes, from their assumptions? But maybe you have another idea about why he is the way he is, about the things that go on in his head! With his self-esteem issues, Simon seems like he'd be prone to introspection (and catastrophising) so there's a lot to be mined there. How did he become so convinced he's useless? He happily trusts Edgin with his life, but is so resistant to Edgin's encouragement of him.
Edgin's got a good heart, even if he doesn't believe that any more. He's a chaotic good who's convinced himself he's chaotic neutral. He's a charming bard and a career criminal - but the instincts that led him to become a Harper are still in there, even if they're buried under trauma and shame and a false grin. One small selfish, impulsive act changed his life completely. He clearly loves Zia so much, and he's devastated by her loss - and that devastation leads him to take actions that hurt Kira, even though he loves her deeply too. I think maybe he's so hostile to Xenk because he has to blame the Red Wizards, because he's too ashamed to admit his part in Zia's death; and he needs Xenk to be a horrible Thayan, because if Xenk is actually a good paladin - if someone can choose holiness despite being cursed, if that kind of purity can exist - then Edgin should have been able to resist the temptation of that gold. But if real goodness doesn't exist, then it can't be his fault that he's flawed. Like he's stuck in some kind of mental loop. But the only real way to erase that guilt is to bring Zia back... and chasing that goal leads him to all kinds of other mistakes. At the same time, when it comes down to it, he'll always choose the side of goodness. But does Edgin know who he is? Is he caught up in his own narrative? He hides his pain with a smile, but is it fake, or has he suckered himself with his own act?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. Could be set pre-Korinn's Keep, or post-canon. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Simon Aumar/Xenk Yendar
Oh, Simon. I love his combination of sweet, earnest awkwardness, and his sulkier, more sarcastic side. He struggles so much with being a sorcerer, with his ability to control those powers - and I'm fascinated by that in the context of him being descended from Elminster Aumar. That legacy is a heavy one to bear. I tend to imagine Simon is the only sorcerer in his family - and that most of them are wizards. I feel like it would explain a lot, growing up like that, inevitably misunderstood - wizardry is all about learned, honed power but sorcery is instinctive and innate. How could a family of wizards understand Simon? How could he have learned anything useful from their processes, from their assumptions? But maybe you have another idea about why he is the way he is, about the things that go on in his head! With his self-esteem issues, Simon seems like he'd be prone to introspection (and catastrophising) so there's a lot to be mined there. How did he become so convinced he's useless?
Xenk is such an intriguing combination of concepts: a holy paladin, serious and stern, determined to do good and frowning upon criminality; but also cursed by dark magic, visibly changed by it, and judged by those he meets for it. Which side of that is more important to his identity? He's stern but kind, caring but awkward, strong but has experienced such trauma, deadly in battle but sworn to goodness. I love seeing him hold to his principles in the face of darkness - and navigating moral challenges in a messy world. He rejects the party's proposal, until they mention Red Wizards - his old foes tempting him to bend his rigid stance. How does he choose his actions, when two of his aims are in conflict? Some versions of the paladin oath would even give him a Vow of Honesty, which can cause some fun situations. (I'm not looking for dark Xenk here, but angsting as he searches for the least bad option? Definitely.) When people treat him harshly as a Thayan, does he strive to prove them wrong? When people place him on a pedestal as a paladin, does he struggle to live up to that? Fine with both autistic and non-autistic interpretations of him too!
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship. Whether getting together or established relationship, I think their dynamic would help to highlight aspects of who they are as people. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Robert Bruce/Elizabeth de Burgh
Robert is so enigmatic. He can be gentle and patient, he can deal out extreme violence. He's a polished statesman capable of inspiring speeches, but turns into an awkward dork around Elizabeth. He's patient but also restrained. He's intensely loyal, but willing to break oaths. He wants to protect his people, but is he also self-serving in seeking to lead them? What was his internal process of falling in love with Elizabeth?
Elizabeth is a political pawn, gifted to a stranger in the name of peace (and control). But her speech about being well-read shows she must have a deep inner life, full of consideration. She's buffeted by the demands of history, but is determined to make and stick with her own choices. What motivates her to support Robert's cause? To believe so strongly in him as a leader, as a husband? What hopes does she have for herself and her own future? She started off fearing intimacy with Robert, then grew to respect him, then fell in love - what did any part of that look like from inside?
A missing scene or something post-canon would be great, whether in the context of politics or their feelings. I love the nuance and complexity of these characters and their relationship, but I'd be happy with something that examines a single aspect of that. (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Marjorie Bruce & Elizabeth de Burgh
This is a relationship which largely grows off-screen, displayed through tiny moments: a soft first meeting, playing chase in the castle, singing a lullaby. But what happened in between? How did those changes take place inside them? What were their thoughts about each other, what did they bring to the table, what forged their opinions of each other? Their relationship while on the run is so interesting too. What were their fears, their hopes, during that time? Was Elizabeth gently reassuring Marjorie, keeping her amused, even as her own private thoughts turned to despair? Or was she deeply concerned, but clinging hard to her belief in Robert?
This probably lends itself more towards Elizabeth's POV, but if you feel like you can get inside Marjorie's head, go for it. I just love that Elizabeth is the sort of person who'd be a kind stepmother, and I'd love a closer examination of the how and why of her being that person. And that Marjorie is so open to accepting her! (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Ralen
I love this awkward, intense alien dude. The fact that he's the son of a warmonger diplomat, choosing to live among people who hate him in the hope of promoting peace? Delicious. Then you add in his dorkiness and the fun space adventures and I'm sold. His inner life, his thoughts, his assumptions, his hopes and his personality could lead to some worldbuilding about Zatar too, because their culture must have influenced him so much. But I'm also open to something focusing on his experience with the gang at the academy, or in the context of ships such as
Ralen/Jax, Ralen/Jax/Delaney, Ralen/Xander, Ralen/Xander/Jax, Ralen/Xander/Jett, or Ralen/Matta. (Links go to previous requests for those ships, in case you want more detailed prompts/thoughts.) Happy for this to be pre-canon, a missing scene, post-canon, or even canon divergence!
Nicholas Devereaux/Mia Thermopolis
Through Mia's diaries, we already get a direct insight into her inner life - I'd love to see that continue post-canon, as her relationship with Nicholas develops, or is fully established. I love the concept of a character presenting a public mask, and privately sharing a more earnest self with those close to them - and the addition of Mia's diary adds another layer underneath, revealing her truest self. But you don't have to use the diary at all - I would love to see her personality come through even when she's put down her pen. She cares so much, she's fought so hard to become queen, and gone through such a process to get together with Nicholas.
Nicholas doesn't have the same outlet for his private thoughts, but there must be so much going on in there. He went from a dismissive rival, influenced by his manipulative uncle, to an earnest supporter making his own choices. He was pushed towards power, but reached for love instead. Mia seems to be his first serious relationship; he's deeply sincere about his feelings, but is he ever afraid of being so vulnerable? Does the ghost of his uncle's manipulations still linger inside him? Does he worry that he's not a good man - that he won't be a good father? Is he worried about the demands of his role as consort?
I'd love you to examine either of these two in the context of this ship, whether a missing scene or post-canon. Also happy for you to bounce them off Clarisse, Joe, Lilly or Mabrey. Or even Fat Louie! (If you want more detailed thoughts/prompts, I've requested this ship previously.)
Galadriel
I'm fascinated by this version of Galadriel. She's strong but conflicted, determined to the point of being unhealthy, focused on making a better world but walking a knife-edge of temptation. I love her as a badass warrior woman, but I also love seeing her vulnerabilities. I'd eat up anything about her inner life, her personality, her motivations. Her friendship with Elrond and her uneasy relationship with Gilgalad are great, and would be a fun context, but I'd also love to see Galadriel examined via any of these ships: Galadriel/Halbrand or Galadriel/Sauron, Galadriel/Elrond, Galadriel/Miriel, Galadriel/Elendil, Galadriel/Arondir, Galadriel/Adar/Sauron. Would these partners help her find stability - or encourage her darkest impulses?
The Stranger
This younger, more vulnerable version of Gandalf is so interesting to me. Obviously we know who he'll become later - but who is he right now? Who is he when he doesn't remember who he is, when he hasn't created who he is yet? I love seeing him through the lens of his platonic relationship with Nori. He looks old but he's effectively a newborn; she's young and still growing into herself too, but ends up directing and protecting him. And he protects her too - or tries to, and instead causes some magical danger, struggling to control his powers. I'd love to see him learning, growing, or examining himself, whether that's solo or through interacting with Nori. (Poppy's welcome to come along for the ride too!)
James T. Kirk
I love this version of Kirk. He's brilliant but reckless, charming but arrogant, protective of his crew but callous to his lovers, willing to break the rules based on his own whims but also willing to sacrifice his life for others. The process that he goes through - from traumatised young man wasting his potential, to sparky cadet, to overconfident captain, to a balanced and mellow leader - is great to watch, and I'd love you to examine him at any point on that journey, or even post-canon. What is his thought process like - strategising, evaluating, gambling? How does he deal with all that trauma lurking under the surface? Who is he in this moment, and is this moment a stepping stone to being a different man?
I'd love to see him captaining his crew, but also in the context of any of these ships: Kirk/Bones, Kirk/Bones/Spock, Kirk/Chekov, Kirk/Pike, Kirk/Scotty, Kirk/Spock. (Links go to previous requests for those ships, in case you want more detailed prompts/thoughts.) Also platonic interactions with Chekov or Jaylah, or Pike's mentorship, would be a fun lens to examine him through.
(Note: Tarsus IV is a big part of his trauma in the original series, but I don't think it's automatically canon here - Kirk was on Tarsus because his father was stationed there, which couldn't happen in this timeline. But! Tarsus angst is great, so I'm happy for you to include it, I'd just like a mention of why he was there. But even if Tarsus isn't canon, being born into survivor's guilt and then living with an abusive stepfather - not to mention all the horrors in space - are trauma enough to have given him that angst. That delicious angst...)
Magnifico
I feel like Magnifico is two characters in a trenchcoat. Is he a purely evil villain powered by arrogance and a need for control, or a sympathetic antagonist crushed by the pressure of kingship and past trauma? I would love you to grab either idea with both hands and really delve into it. Why does he do the things he does? Does he really believe that he's helping people? Could he ever have changed course? And can he ever be redeemed?
Pre-canon, a missing scene, and post-canon are all welcome. Canon divergence too - I'm always up for a villain wins AU, or an AU where Asha became Magnifico's apprentice after all. Platonic interactions with Asha or other citizens of Rosas would be great, or show me his personality in the context of Magnifico/Amaya, Magnifico/Asha, or Magnifico/Amaya/Asha. (Links go to previous requests for those ships, in case you want more detailed prompts/thoughts.)